In this article we talk about the essentials for DJing as well as the art of using the turntable as an instrument. We cover everything from scratching to beat-juggling as well as what type of stylus you'll need for your style of DJing.

In this article we talk about tips for recording guitars, bass, drums and vocals. Learn about the types of microphones you'll need, different recording techniques, and how to use the room to get the best sound.

In this article we explain why its necessary to have microphone preamps, acoustic treatment, shock mounts, pop filters, headphones and more. You'll learn why each of these will enhance your recording experience.

In this article we explain the basic science behind recording with a microphone. Key terms are explored as well as techniques for using mics. You'll also find info on stereo recording techniques such as XY, A/B, and ORTF.

From radio stations, to sports announcers, to bands, the Mic Mute Family offers microphone switching solutions. Check out these push to talk, push to mute, and latching push-on/ push-off boxes from Whirlwind. They're American-made and come with a 3-year warranty.

The Gear Club Podcast features an informative, yet irreverent, look at the art of recording with stories told by the pros in the industry. It's hosted by John Agnello (Dinosaur Jr., Sonic Youth) and Stewart Lerman (St. Vincent, Patti Smith, Boardwalk Empire). Every episode features an interview with a legendary engineer, artist, inventor, or producer. They also deconstruct a recording that inspired them, discuss their favorite piece of audio gear, and offer recording tips and techniques. This episode features Richard Factor, the founder of Eventide Audio.

Fission is a brand new, ground-breaking plug-in that does something entirely new to audio. It allows you to split a sound into its transient and tonal parts, independently manipulate them using Eventide's world-class effects and then fuse them back together. With the ability to add effects and dynamic controls to the transient and tonal sections, you can produce a wide range of effects, from the subtle to the extreme. This video shows a track we made using 10 different instances of Eventide Fission. This is a great example of how to use the plug-in for sound design.

The guys over at andvinyly.com have figured out a way to press cremated ashes into a vinyl record. This is a great way to be remembered for as long as the earth keeps producing people that make turntables. Record a story from your loved one, put their favorite music on it (or tunes they created), etc.

TrainingSnacks was present at the NAMM convention in Anaheim, CA and found some real intriguing gear! Here's a small sampling of some of the cool stuff such as the Akai MPC-X, Dave Smith/Pioneer SP-16, and Genelec 1237 monitors.